The number of confirmed Covid-19 infections in Germany has risen notably, according to the latest report by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Between 6 and 12 October, laboratories registered about 6 440 confirmed cases nationwide — a marked increase from roughly 3 850 the previous week.
The institute estimates a Covid incidence of around 600 cases per 100 000 residents, compared with 400 a week earlier. Officials caution that school holidays may distort weekly figures slightly, meaning the totals could still shift in later updates.
“Frankenstein” variant leads current wave
A recombinant strain known scientifically as XFG, and colloquially nicknamed “Stratus” or “Frankenstein,” now dominates infections in Germany, accounting for about 71 % of all sequenced cases.
The name “Frankenstein” refers to the variant’s genetic structure — a blend of multiple Omicron sub-lineages, much like the fictional creature pieced together from different parts in Mary Shelley’s 19th-century novel.
Experts describe the hybrid as more contagious than previous variants but not more severe in its clinical course.
Overall infection levels remain moderate
Despite the recent uptick, Covid activity remains below last year’s levels.
In mid-October 2024, Germany recorded roughly 11 570 cases in a comparable period — nearly double today’s count — and still far from pandemic-era figures.
At the peak in October 2020, more than 19 000 new infections were reported in a single day.
Looking at all acute respiratory illnesses, the RKI currently classifies activity as moderate. Based on voluntary public reporting, around 7 800 respiratory infections per 100 000 inhabitants were registered — down from 9 000 the week before — which translates to an estimated 6.5 million people suffering from coughs, colds, or flu-like symptoms nationwide.
Other viruses circulating – but few severe cases
Alongside Covid-19, rhinoviruses (the common-cold virus) and parainfluenza viruses are spreading, particularly among young children.
Severe respiratory cases remain low by historical standards, and hospitals report no alarming rise in intensive-care admissions linked to Covid.
Influenza currently plays only a minor role, with around 400 lab-confirmed flu cases nationwide during the same week.
Germany’s flu season typically begins in January and lasts three to four months, when Influenza A and B viruses reach high activity levels.
Outlook: Monitoring continues as autumn deepens
While the so-called “Frankenstein” variant appears to be spreading faster, health experts stress there is no evidence of increased danger. The RKI continues to monitor infection patterns closely, particularly in light of upcoming winter months when seasonal respiratory diseases traditionally surge.
